Getting Your Child Ready for School

What you need to know to help your child see well to grow and learn.

Vision plays an important role in your child's physical, mental, and social development. Uncorrected vision problems can impair child development, interfere with learning, and even lead to permanent vision loss. Early detection and treatment of eye problems are critical.

Take your child to an eye doctor (optometrist or ophthalmologist) if they do not pass a vision screening, if they are at increased risk of a vision problem due to developmental delay, medical condition, or a family history of vision problems, or if you have a concern about your child’s vision.

Know the Eye Exam or Vision Screening Requirements in Your State

If You Need to Take Your Child to the Eye Doctor

Your child may have been referred to an eye doctor as the result of a children's vision screening. Any child who experiences vision problems or shows symptoms of eye trouble should receive a comprehensive eye exam by an optometrist or an ophthalmologist.

Read Our Guidelines for Children's Vision Health

Prevent Blindness recommends a continuum of eye care for children to include both vision screening and comprehensive eye examinations. All children, even those with no signs of trouble, should have their eyes checked at regular intervals. Any child who experiences vision problems or shows symptoms of eye trouble should receive a comprehensive eye examination by an optometrist or an ophthalmologist.